Custom Guitars: From Telecaster Super Deluxe to Acoustic Innovations

My journey into custom guitar building began several years ago when I embarked on a project that would challenge my skills and creativity to the fullest. I didn't start from scratch in the traditional sense; instead, I used a classical guitar neck and an unfinished Broadcaster body. The end result was a unique and personal "classi-telecaster" that I affectionately named the 'Telecaster Super Deluxe.'

A Tribute to My Parents

The Telecaster Super Deluxe is more than just a guitar; it's a tribute to my parents who got married in the late 1950s. My father is white, and my mother is black, a fact that adds a rich cultural layer to the story of this guitar. Hearing about their marriage inspired me to choose an authentic wood: Swamp Ash. This wood carried with it the significance of my parents' union.

For the neck, I wanted to go a step further and replicate the quartersawn maple necks that were popular back then. It was important to me to honor my parents' past and create something that was not only beautiful but also deeply personal.

Designing the Telecaster Super Deluxe

The design of the Telecaster Super Deluxe was the culmination of several goals: to merge the best of a Telecaster and a Les Paul, and to integrate modern technology that would enhance the playing experience.

I learned about Fralin Unbuckers, humbuckers designed to coil tap, which seemed like the perfect solution. By incorporating two of these, I expanded the tonal possibilities with a Jimmy Page wiring harness. The result was a 3-way switch and four push-pull knobs, offering 21 different voice options.

For the wiring, I opted for a Jimmy Page harness, which allowed for incredible tonal flexibility, catering to both amateur and professional players. With this setup, I could achieve everything from a clean and crisp sound to a profoundly rich and layered tone.

Acoustic Innovations

As an enthusiast of both acoustic and electric guitars, I turned my attention to developing an acoustic guitar that addressed some of the common issues players face. The goal was to design a guitar that not only looked and played great but could also be amplified without feedback and without the need for a footstool.

The acoustic guitar design focused on the body shape, which was specifically engineered to reduce feedback. A wide fretboard and a longer scale length were also included to accommodate professional players who need every note to be in perfect tune. Access to 24 frets was also a priority, ensuring players could reach any note they needed.

A unique feature of this acoustic guitar was the inclusion of a pickup for each string, along with a volume control for each string. This level of control and customization is rare in acoustic guitars and allows for a more nuanced and dynamic playing experience. Additionally, a six-channel direct output was included, enabling the player to connect directly to an audio system without the need for additional equipment.

Conclusion

From the Telecaster Super Deluxe to cutting-edge acoustic innovations, my journey as a custom guitar builder has been a journey of passion and innovation. Each guitar is a reflection of my personal journey, honoring the past and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in guitar design and construction. Whether it's a tribute to my parents or a groundbreaking acoustic innovation, every guitar represents a unique piece of art and a personal story.

My aim is to continue this journey, exploring new materials, techniques, and technologies, always striving to build guitars that not only sound great but also offer a unique and fulfilling playing experience for all musicians.